5 Signs Of Dehydration That We Often Misunderstand

Dehydration often seems like a condition, that we hear about happening to others. But that is far from true. Dehydration is more common than you think. It can happen to anybody. But we often miss the signs of dehydration. And sometimes we are more likely unaware of it. Dehydration is a condition in which our bodies lose more fluid than retained. This leads to inadequacy of water in our bodies. And when dehydration occurs due to excessive fluid loss, our bodies stop functioning normally and start giving out certain symptoms.

1. Persistent Fatigue

If you are constantly tired, at home and at office, then dehydration can be one of the reasons. If your sense of fatigue never leaves you, then you might want to introspect into your drinking habits. Fatigue, due to dehydration, can continue even after you wake up from a good sleep.

Water deficiency slows down the chemical reactions in our bodies. Enzymatic reactions require water, and these become decelerated due to lack of water. So, make sure that you are looking into your water intake, before you dismiss your fatigue as ‘feeling lazy’ or probable weakness.

2. Constipation

Apart from lack of fiber in your diet, dehydration can also be a cause behind your chronic constipation. Also, you are likely to feel bloated and have bad breath, if you are dehydrated. The wastes of our bodies get stored in our intestines, and then get out of our bodies during excretion, via the rectum. But, dehydration can cause the waste to form a hard mass, incapable of moving through the intestine due to lack of lubrication.

3. Cognitive Inefficiency

Our brains are surrounded and protected by water. And efficient cognitive function requires water. At the time of dehydration, electrolytes and sodium levels change in our bodies, which leads to changes in our cognitive functions. Studies have found that dehydration can cause confusion and diminished ability to focus in people.

People who exercise, should make sure to keep themselves hydrated before, during and post their workout sessions. Replenish your fluids to keep yourself fit and sharp.

4. Dark Urine

This is one of the most obvious signs of dehydration. Dark colored urine is caused by kidneys when our bodies have a considerable water deficit. Kidneys filter out wastes and release those out through urine. During dehydration, kidneys retain more water inside our bodies and push minerals and other wastes out through urine. So, urine that has less water and more minerals (wastes) tend to be darker in color. Hence, dark urine is a sign of dehydration.

5. Dryness

Parched throats, dry lips, cracked skin, all are signs of dehydration. Good hydration provides clear and supple skin. So, keep a look out for all these signs to be assured of the hydration levels of your body.

3 Tips For Staying Hydrated

1. Start your day with 2 glasses of water. After brushing your teeth, consume water. This will help your body in flushing out wastes, as well as in keeping you hydrated.

2. Consume a lot of hydrating foods like cucumber, melons, grapefruits etc. These are rich in both vitamins and water.

3. Carry a water bottle throughout the day with you to keep yourself continuously hydrated.

Water is the only drink that you should drink with impunity for good health and a strong mind. So, drink away to glory and fitness.